Prevent Illegal Dumping in Your Dumpster
What Is Illegal Dumping?
The definition of illegal dumping – also known as fly-tipping or midnight dumping – is when people toss debris in an area, like a yard or dumpster, without permission. Someone might target commercial bins for businesses and roll off dumpsters on construction sites or private properties. From “private dumpster” signs to locks, here are our tips to prevent illegal dumping.
6 Tips to Secure Your Front Load Bin
1. Lock Your Container
Ask our account management team about locks or gravity bars for extra security.
2. Place a Warning Sign
Note that your dumpster is for private use only and violators will be prosecuted.
3. Build an Enclosure
Put your bin in a corral with a locked gate. Just make sure it's unlocked before pickups.
4. Check Your Bin Daily
Instruct staff to note unexpected debris or oversized items and report it immediately.
5. Ask Your Neighbors
Check with other businesses who might share your bin or notice abnormal trash.
6. Install a Security Camera
If you suspect illegal dumping, consider surveillance to catch possible culprits.
Customize Your Commercial Bin
Ask our account managers about commercial dumpster service additional features, including dumpster locks, wheels and drain plugs to improve security, mobility and cleanliness.
6 Tips to Protect Your Roll Off Dumpster
1. Light it Up
Place your dumpster in a well-lit area, either near streetlamps or with temporary lighting.
2. Cover the Bin
Place a tarp over your container when no one is working.
3. Fence Your Site
Add a locked, temporary fence around your jobsite to keep unwanted guests out.
4. Avoid Street Placement
If possible, keep your dumpster away from high-traffic areas that are hard to secure.
5. Post a Warning Sign
Place signs near the roll off dumpster to warn outsiders about illegal dumping fines.
6. Plan for Security
Consider installing security cameras or hiring night staff to monitor your site.
How to Report Illegal Use of Your Container
Depending on local and state regulations, someone caught in the act can face legal consequences, including fines and possible jail time. To stop others from dumping trash on your property, gather the following information and report it online or contact local authorities.
Location
Note the exact address and placement of your container.
Date of incident
Provide the date and timeframe, if possible.
License plate number
Prioritize this information to help authorities identify the culprits.
Description of person/vehicle
Jot down physical features and clothing items along with the make and model of the vehicle.
What Are the Effects of Illegal Dumping?
If you’ve ever been a victim of illegal dumping, you know how frustrating it can be. Not only does the extra trash take up space in your bin, but you can be hit with additional charges in the following situations:
Exceeded Weight Limit
If your container goes over the weight capacity on your rental agreement, you might see overage charges on your account.
Overloaded Containers
With strangers’ junk on top of your own daily trash, debris might fill up past the top of the container or spill over the sides, resulting in overloading fees.
Prohibited Items
Others might be unaware of the debris allowed in your container. If they toss prohibited materials, the landfill can charge extra to safely sort the waste.
More Dumpster Rental Resources
From container placement to waste strategies for your business or jobsite, check out our industry tips.
For Businesses
